How do you use a circuit tester screwdriver?

A:

Quick Answer

Test wires, receptacles and other electrical equipment by pressing the tip of the circuit tester to the item to be tested and noting whether the bulb in the handle lights up. If the bulb does not light up, then that electrical piece is not "hot."

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Although these types of testers look a little bit like screwdrivers, they cannot really be used as a screwdriver. These circuit testers are easy to store in a tool box or a tool belt.

Turn off the power

Before working with any electrical elements, turn the power off at the circuit breaker.

Test a receptacle

Push the tip into a slot in the receptacle. Test both the shorter slot and the longer one to determine which one is the hot one. If the receptacle was wired correctly, the shorter one should be the hot one. The hot connection lights up the bulb in the handle of the tester.

Test the wires

Unscrew the receptacle and test each of the wires. Hot wires will light the bulb in the handle of the tester, while those that are not hot will not allow the bulb to light.

Test cables

Test cables in the same manner. If the cable is functional and wired correctly, it will allow the bulb in the tester to light up.Learn more about Electrical